Relational aggression: Understanding,identifying, and responding in schools

Relational aggression, harm through injury or manipulation of a relationship, has become fashionable, particularly in the popular press. Mental health professionals in schools can better serve students when they understand what is known about relational aggression, how it influences social behavior, and how it is related to children's well‐being. This article discusses the definition, identification, and consequences of relational aggression. Available intervention programs are introduced, and future directions for research, assessment, and intervention are addressed. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Psychol Schs 43: 297–312, 2006.